Grand National 2011: Ballabriggs wins in a day of drama at Aintree | Daily Mail Online comments 22-year-old Irish jockey taken to hospital with head injuries in pre-Grand National race Two horses fatally injured in falls which led to just 28 fences being jumped for the first time BBC responds to criticism by saying presenters handled deaths 'sensitively' Critical condition: Peter Toole was injured in a race preceding yesterday's Grand National Jockey Peter Toole is in a critical condition in hospital after being hurt in a heavy fall at Aintree on Grand National Day. Toole was injured when his mount, the outsider Classic Fly, crashed to the ground in the early stages of the John Smith's Maghull Novices' Chase, the 2.15pm race on the card yesterday. The 22-year-old has been put in a medically-induced coma after he suffered bleeding on the right side of his brain and a dislocated shoulder. His fall came before two horses died during yesterday’s Grand National in one of the most ‘distressing’ races in recent history.

The 22-year-old Irishman was taken to the nearby Fazakerley Hospital then later transferred to the hospital's Walton Centre For Neurology & Neuro Surgery. Trainer Charlie Mann, to whom Mr Toole is attached as a conditional jockey, said: 'He's in an induced coma and he won't be brought out until Monday at the earliest. 'He has bleeding on the right-hand side of his brain. He also dislocated a shoulder which has since been put back in place. 'He's on a ventilator, and it's not great - but we won't know any more until Monday.' Weighing-room colleague David Crosse added: 'Ive spoken to Peter's dad who said he remains stable, but with no improvement. 'He's going to be sedated for 24 hours.' During the Grand National, millions of TV viewers saw Ornais fall at the fourth fence, breaking his neck, while Dooneys Gate broke his back minutes later at Becher’s Brook. It meant that for the first time in the race’s history the two fences were bypassed during the second circuit of the Aintree track – as the horses were hastily screened off with tarpaulins.

But the BBC was accused of a ‘cover-up’ after commentator Mick Fitzgerald described the dead horses as ‘obstacles’. Distressing sight: Runners and riders lie in a tangle on the ground after jumping the notorious Becher's Brook where Dooneys Gate died today The former Grand National winner made the remark while discussing how chequered flags were waved as jockeys approached the 20th and 22nd fences, which they were required to bypass because the dead bodies had not been removed. Mr Fitzgerald said: ‘The thing is, you know there is an obstacle ahead, that’s what these chequered flags tell you.’ One viewer wrote on the corporation’s own website: ‘I’m amazed that the BBC coverage pans over the tarpaulins on the re-run and the commentators just talk about “obstacles”.’ Another said: ‘And the BBC – shame on you. No mention of what’s happened, even when there’s 2 dead covered horses on screen.’ On The Mail on Sunday website, commenters also expressed outrage.

‘Jax’ branded the race ‘disgusting and cruel’, adding: ‘It’s not the Grand National, it’s a national disgrace.’ Covered up: A dead horse is hidden by tarpaulin as the race continues over on the far side of the Aintree course Another, ‘Phoenix’, said: ‘I cannot believe in this day and age that this kind of public cruelty still goes on. Two animals died today but nobody cares, we’ll do it all again next year.’ Of the main race, Andrew Tyler of Animal Aid described the gruelling four-and-a-half-mile marathon as one of the most ‘distressing’ races he could recall and echoed criticisms of the BBC, saying: ‘It is particularly callous and disgusting that a member of the commentary team should describe the dead horses as they lay on the course as an “obstacle”.’ Aintree said the bypassing practice became possible two years ago for the first time as part of ‘ongoing safety improvements’. More than half the 40 runners failed to make the finish line.

Tragedy: Dooneys Gate, in the centre of the picture one of the race's two fatalities ridden by Paul Mullins, falls at Becher's Brook Over: Grand Slam Hero and Aidan Coleman at the 13th fence. Just 19 of the field of 40 finished the race Tony Moore, chairman of Fight Against Animal Cruelty in Europe, led a group of around 40 people demonstrating outside the racecourse. He said: ‘If they really care about horses, why do the owners, jockeys and trainers put them through this ordeal?’ On average, three horses a year are fatally injured over the three-day Aintree meeting. Ornais, ridden by Nick Scholfield, came to grief at the fourth fence.The nine-year-old was one of four horses in the race trained by Paul Nicholls, who said: ‘He was a very good novice chaser in his early days. It is bad luck and very sad to lose a horse in this way.’ Dooneys Gate came down two fences later at Becher’s Brook. Irish trainer Willie Mullins, whose son Patrick was having his first National ride on the horse, said: ‘He was a good servant to us.

It’s very unfortunate and Patrick is devastated.’ Going ...Mark Walsh and Quolibet Going ... The rider knows he's in deep trouble Gone ... The pair crash to the ground at the 11th Viewers could clearly see the dead horses being covered with tarpaulins from an aerial camera. The BBC’s Grand National presenter Clare Balding later tweeted: ‘Very sorry to report two fatalities at the Grand National – thoughts with all those connected with Ornais & Dooneys Gate.’ Julian Thick, managing director of Aintree Racecourse, said: ‘We are desperately sad at the accidents and our thoughts go out to the connections of Ornais and Dooneys Gate. When a horse gets hurt, everyone is deeply upset. Safety is the first priority for the organisers of the Grand National meeting and we will redouble our efforts to make sure that everyone involved in the event is able to participate in safety and comfort. Horseracing is a carefully regulated and monitored sport. All horses and riders in the Grand National have to meet very high standards set by an independent panel of experts.’ Responding to Animal Aid’s criticism, a BBC spokesman said: ‘We were aware of the unfortunate events of the two fatalities.

During the race and the re-run this was covered with as much sensitivity as possible. ‘Clare [Balding] was also most sensitive in her reporting of the incidents and even touched on it in her closing links to the programme.’ Watched by 600 million people worldwide, the race was won by Ballabriggs, which finished ahead of Oscar Time ridden by Kate Middleton’s friend Sam Waley-Cohen. Bookmakers William Hill said more than £250 million was gambled yesterday. 33 tragedies at course in just 11 years By JO MACFARLANE In all 33 horses have died during three-day Grand National meetings at Aintree since 2000 – and it is unusual for no horse to be killed as a result of the main race itself. In 2000 five horses died over the three days. The high death toll prompted animal rights activists to describe it as a ‘blood bath’ and call for an investigation. Strong Promise, Rossell Island and Architect all suffered fatal falls on the first day of the meeting while Lake Kariba had a heart attack at the end of a race. Toni’s Tip sustained fatal spinal injuries during a race the following day.

Close up: Horses attempting the notoriously difficult Becher's Brook at the Grand National In 2001, The Outback Way also died from spinal injuries. Of the four deaths in 2002, two – The Last Fling and Manx Magic – happened during the Grand National race itself. Desert Mountain and Anubis Quercus died in earlier races at the meeting. Goguenard had to be put down after the 2003 Grand National and Coolnagorna was also put down after breaking a hind leg. Unusually, there were no deaths in 2004. But Lilium de Cotte died after suffering a haemorrhage on the middle day of the 2005 meeting, and two horses – Terivic and Tyneandthyneagain – were killed in 2006. Tyneandthyneagain perished after falling at the first fence in the main race. The 2007 meeting saw the deaths of three horses. Lord Rodney and Into The Shadows were killed in races before the main event.

Falling: Riders and horses fall in the melee at Becher's Brook Dramatic: Several horses fall at Becher's, captured here in dramatic close up Meanwhile, Graphic Approach died a month after sustaining injuries at the notorious Becher’s Brook fence during the Grand National. Another three horses were killed in 2008: Time To Sell, The High Grass and McKelvey. McKelvey had become something of a star after featuring on BBC1’s The One Show as he was treated for a tendon injury and prepared for the iconic race. But 2009 was an even worse year, with five deaths – the worst toll since 2000. Hear The Echo collapsed and died at the end of the big race on the Saturday, while Exotic Dancer, Mel In Blue, Moscow Catch and Lilla Sophia died earlier during the meeting. A further four died last year, 2010, although none of them during the main Grand National race. Pagan Starprincess, Prudent Honour, Plaisir D’Estraval and Schindlers Hunt all fell during previous races.

This year, one of the bloodiest for the Grand National itself, two horses, Ornais and Dooneys Gate, died during the main race. Inventor fell on Thursday. Animal Aid claims 162 horses have died on race courses in Britain over the past 12 months. The organisation’s website carries a feature called Race Horse Death Watch, which keeps a running record of racing tragedies up and down the country. And they're off! The horses make their way down to the first fence in the John Smith's Grand National On his way: Ballabriggs ridden by Jason Maguire in green and yellow silks leaps over the water jump on his way to winning the Grand National Winner: Jockey Jason Maguire celebrating after romping home by two and a quarter lengths on Ballabriggs Ballabriggs wins fifth Grand National at Aintree for McCain family | Sport | The Guardian Close This article is 5 years old Ballabriggs at 14-1 gave the new generation of the McCain family victory in a race which will always be associated with their name when grinding out success in a bruising renewal of the John Smith's Grand National .

Donald McCain, whose father trained Red Rum to win the race three times, successes which helped elevate the contest into a national institution, enjoyed his first victory in the world's most famous jumps race since taking over the licence from his father in 2006. But the race came not without its share of unwanted controversy, with two horses killed and the winning horse heading straight back to the racecourse stables after the race after showing signs of dehydration after the winning post. Instead it was left to jockey Jason Maguire to take the cheers of the sell-out crowd as he walked back to the winner's enclosure with Ballabriggs left to enjoy being splashed in buckets of cold water, which were thankfully in ready supply given the unseasonal high temperatures at the track. Having taken up the lead at halfway, Maguire's mount relished the challenge of the fences and produced some impressive jumps in front after one memorable bad blunder at Valentine's Brook. Going to the second-last fence, there were still five runners in with a clear chance, Niche Market doing his best to get past the leader but under maximum pressure.

It was only after the final fence that Irish National runner-up Oscar Time (14-1) emerged as the greatest danger to the winner and the pair set down to battle it out up the run-in. For one brief moment at the Elbow when Sam Waley-Cohen switched Oscar Time out to challenge, it looked as if he might reel in the leader, but Ballabriggs found more and scored by 2¼ lengths. Don't Push It (9-1) tried gallantly to become the first horse since Red Rum himself to win the race twice and kept on bravely under Tony McCoy for third place, while State of Play (28-1) came from a long way back to finish fourth and make the frame in the race for the fourth consecutive years. A total of 19 horses completed the course. Favourite The Midnight Club finished sixth. Maguire rode the race with his right hand heavily bandaged after a heavy fall on the opening day of the meeting. "This is crazy," said the jockey. "I've got to thank Donald, Mr Hemmings, my mother and father, everybody. It's a dream come true.

I tried to get in the first 10 early on so that if he did make a mistake we hadn't as much ground to make up. He loved it and was jumping from fence to fence. He was attacking every one. "I got him to the front to get him relaxed and put breathers into him and that helped him get the trip. There was a question mark about him getting the trip, but Donald has done a great job. I don't know what I feel. I'm just overwhelmed." McCain, for whom Maguire rides as stable jockey, added: "We've always thought this might be an Aintree horse and you only need to see the way he's taken to this place today. Good horses are easy to train. Everything has gone smoothly all year and he had a nice prep at Kelso last time. "He's just an absolute pleasure to deal with, I know he's won a Grand National , but he is. I've been involved in Grand Nationals all my life and you come here and you realise what this place is all about. It's hot out there and he had been up there all the way. He gives his everything, he doesn't hold anything back.

He is coming round fine now thankfully, he was just tired." Grand National: Pinstickers' guide to the Aintree runners and riders - BBC Sport BBC Sport Grand National: Pinstickers' guide to the Aintree runners and riders By Frank Keogh From the section Horse Racing Share this page 16:15 BST Coverage: Commentary on BBC Radio 5 live, online and mobile devices. Live text commentary on BBC Sport website. Channel 4 TV Frank Keogh's verdict: 1 Imperial Commander 2 Cappa Bleu 3 Teaforthree 4 Always Waining 5 Treacle Imperial Commander would be an emotional winner for the team who lost Little Josh to a fatal fall on Friday. Cappa Bleu and Always Waining love the place, Teaforthree should see out trip and Treacle was my pick last year. Good luck to all.

(Number, form, name, age, weight, trainer, jockey) 1 51U/1P/-2 IMPERIAL COMMANDER 12-11-10 Nigel Twiston-Davies Sam Twiston-Davies Trainer and son were devastated on Friday after their much-loved racehorse Little Josh died after a fall in a race over the National fences. They will regroup to prepare stable star Imperial Commander, who won the 2010 Cheltenham Gold Cup, in which Denman and Kauto Star were rivals. Returned from long injury lay-off when second at Cheltenham in January. Missed Gold Cup in March with infection but has been thriving at home since. Sam, 20, rides for his father, who won with Earth Summit (1998) and Bindaree (2002). Rating: 9/10 Odds: 14-1 2 P/33F0-0 WHAT A FRIEND 10-11-09 Paul Nicholls Sam Thomas A victory at Liverpool for Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson? He co-owns the horse who has won another race at the Aintree meeting previously.

Unlike Fergie's title-bound team, What A Friend (one of two in the race for the Scot) has been out of form although should appreciate drying ground and was once fourth in a Cheltenham Gold Cup. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 50-1 3 3PF-4PP WEIRD AL 10-11-08 Donald McCain Timmy Murphy Another who has decent form in the book, albeit from a few seasons ago. Boasts a formidable trainer-jockey combination. Trainer won the 2011 National with Ballabriggs and is son of the late Ginger who guided the legendary Red Rum to three victories and landed the race with Amberleigh House in 2004. Jockey won on Comply Or Die for David Pipe five years ago. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 40-1 4 1113-04 QUEL ESPRIT 9-11-07 Willie Mullins IRE David Casey Irish champion trainer, whose current stable stars include champion hurdler Hurricane Fly and Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up Sir Des Champs, won the National in 2005 with Hedgehunter.

Quel Esprit's win in the 2012 Irish Hennessy reads well, but stablemate On His Own is clearly the number one candidate for Mullins, whose all-time sporting hero, just as an aside, is Brazilian football great Pele. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 50-1 5 40/-U312 BIG FELLA THANKS 11-11-06 Tom George Denis O'Regan Has finished fourth, sixth and seventh in previous Nationals. In decent form this season, and while weight is a concern, one of the more interesting bigger-priced runners. Named after a greyhound, and not as some think the racing broadcaster Derek Thompson, who is fond of the greeting 'All right Big Fella'. Formerly with Ferdy Murphy, now trained in Gloucestershire. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 40-1 6 1113-23 SEABASS 10-11-06 Ted Walsh IRE Katie Walsh Remember the film National Velvet where Elizabeth Taylor played a young female jockey who won the Grand National? Couldn't happen in real life, could it? Don't bet against it.

Katie is an amateur in name only, a brilliant rider who achieved best finish by a lady rider in National when third on Seabass last year. Her trainer dad Ted won the race in 2000 with Papillon, ridden by her brother Ruby. Fairytale stuff. Rating: 8/10 Odds: 10-1 7 0-1U355 ROBERTO GOLDBACK 11-11-06 Nicky Henderson Barry Geraghty Brought to the UK from Ireland to be specifically trained for this race by the astute Henderson yard. Trainer has never won the race, but has a legion of top steeplechasers, including last month's Champion Chase winner Sprinter Sacre, who also won the Melling Chase at Aintree on Friday, and Cheltenham Gold Cup victor Bobs Worth. I don't think Roberto Goldback will win, but some other judges think he is a leading player.

Rating: 6/10 Odds: 33-1 8 P012-5P SUNNYHILLBOY 10-11-04 Jonjo O'Neill Richie McLernon Narrowest runner-up in Grand National history last year when just edged out by winner Neptune Collonges by a nose - after a demanding four and a half miles over 30 testing fences. Has more weight this year and champion jockey AP McCoy has elected to ride Colbert Station instead for Ted Walsh. Both are among horses owned by JP McManus, who pays the champ's wages. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 16-1 9 1/46-P03 BALLABRIGGS 12-11-04 Donald McCain Jason Maguire Impressive winner of the 2011 National for Donald McCain, son of Aintree legend Ginger, who triumphed three times with Red Rum in the 1970s and again with Amberleigh House in 2004.

Ginger, a colourful character who vigorously defended the supreme challenge that this unique contest provides, died five months after the win by Ballabriggs who was sixth last year and could compete for a minor place. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 16-1 10 11-0620 TEAFORTHREE 9-11-03 Rebecca Curtis Nick Scholfield While 500 million people worldwide focus on the Grand National, Teaforthree's one-time jockey John Thomas McNamara is paralysed in hospital after a fall at last month's Cheltenham Festival. The distinguished Irish amateur rode the horse to victory in the four-miler at the 2012 Festival. Trained in Wales, was second in Welsh National and would be a poignant winner as racing's thoughts remain with JT and his family. Rating: 8/10 Odds: 14-1 11 3-11201 ACROSS THE BAY 9-11-02 Donald McCain Henry Brooke Gone a bit under the radar this one for shrewd National-winning trainer (Ballabriggs 2011).

Beat leading contender Cappa Bleu, who may not have been at his best that day, out of sight earlier in the season. Owned by the Scotch Piper Syndicate. Will they be piping up after another McCain winner? Not in my top five, but three wins this season tell you he might be in the mix. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 33-1 12 1P3-02P JOIN TOGETHER 8-11-02 Paul Nicholls Daryl Jacob Champion trainer Paul Nicholls is getting the hang of this Grand National lark. After 53 attempts, including a couple of near misses, he finally won the world's most famous horse race last year when the galloping grey Neptune Collonges won in a photo finish. Last year's winning jockey takes the ride and the pair are respected. Nicholls told me on Monday this was his best chance in this year's contest. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 16-1 13 413-5211 COLBERT STATION 9-11-01 Ted Walsh IRE AP McCoy Now this is where it gets interesting.

Trainer Ted Walsh, the highly respected pundit and equine expert, knows how to get horses ready. He prepared Papillon to win in 2000 and has two leading contenders this year - Seabass and Colbert Station. Daughter Katie rides the former and 17-times champion jockey McCoy is on the latter. McCoy won National in 2010 on Don't Push It for Jonjo O'Neill and is a fascinating jockey booking. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 9-1 14 2P1536 FORPADYDEPLASTERER 11-11-00 Thomas Cooper IRE Andrew J McNamara Consortium of owners include folk who once owned Sunderland FC. In their red and white scarves, the band of Irish racing fans sometimes sing 'Forpadydeplasterer, they never go fasterer.' Maybe even when they are, er, a bit plastered. A high-quality steeplechaser in his prime. Possibly not the force of old, and stamina question, but no forlorn hope.

Rating: 7/10 Odds: 66-1 15 P1/B1F-1 ON HIS OWN 9-11-00 Willie Mullins IRE Ruby Walsh Have to be honest - he's ante-post favourite for a reason and I'm taking a huge punt by leaving him out of the selections. Anyone can tip the favourite and it is the Grand National where luck plays a big part. Trainer believes he is a better horse than his 2005 winner Hedgehunter, and he was top drawer. Jockey is one of the all-time greats. He may well be out on his own, although fell late on last year when travelling ominously well. Rating: 8/10 Odds: 7-1 16 0-35233 JONCOL 10-10-13 Paul Nolan IRE Robbie Power Bare recent form figures don't have too many 1s in there. However, handicapper has given him a shout with handy weight of less than 11st. Previous winner of the Irish Hennessy Gold Cup.

Jockey Robbie Power, who is nicknamed 'Puppy', comes from an equestrian family - dad Con was a top showjumper. Robbie won the 2007 Grand National on Silver Birch for trainer Gordon Elliott. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 50-1 17 P0F1-12 BALTHAZAR KING 9-10-12 Philip Hobbs Richard Johnson Outstanding performer at Cheltenham where his cross-country chase win at the course's Festival in 2012 is a very solid piece of form. Somerset trainer Hobbs and serial jockeys' title runner-up Johnson (second many times to AP McCoy) are an excellent partnership. The likeable pair nearly landed a maiden Grand National win with the grey What's Up Boys, beaten into second by Bindaree in 2002. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 16-1 18 1334-22 CAPPA BLEU 11-10-11 Evan Williams Paul Moloney As close as you'll get to an each-way banker in a race where you expect the unexpected.

Fourth last year and Welsh trainer previously had his State Of Play placed three times in the Grand National. He thinks Cappa Bleu is in even better shape this year. Can see him being in the shake-up, although not quite having enough to win. Rating: 8/10 Odds: 10-1 19 2/4-4U60 OSCAR TIME 12-10-11 Martin Lynch IRE Sam Waley-Cohen Ran a blinder for amateur jockey when second in the 2011 Grand National. Rider is an expert in getting horses to thrive in this demanding setting with wins in three other races over the big Aintree fences, plus three seconds. Was also fifth on Liberthine in the 2007 National, a year after winning on the mare in the Topham Chase. Oscar not in the form of two years ago, but likes the Liverpool air. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 66-1 20 44001-00 ALWAYS WAINING 12-10-10 Peter Bowen Tom O'Brien Huge price for a horse that has won three times over the Grand National fences.

Yes, you heard that right, a triple winner over the big obstacles. His victories in the Topham Chase came over much shorter distance, but drying ground could help in the stamina department. Pembrokeshire trainer has often had him entered in the National itself - this year he gets his chance to shine. Rating: 8/10 Odds: 40-1 21 15U-606 TATENEN 9-10-10 Richard Rowe Andrew Thornton The more people you speak to, the more your head gets fried with all the information. Anyway, owner Andy Stewart told me earlier in week Tatenen is overpriced. He was a little put out when I told him he would not be featuring in my first five. Jockey approaching veteran stage is known as 'Lenzio'. He wears contact lenses, you see. Trainer used to ride for the late Josh Gifford, who brought Aldaniti back from serious injury to win 1981 National.

Rating: 6/10 Odds: 66-1 22 423F-01 TREACLE 12-10-09 Tom Taaffe IRE Noel Fehily My tip last year tipped up. Win last time out was encouraging for trainer, who landed Cheltenham Gold Cup with Kicking King in 2005, and is the son of the late Pat Taaffe - best known for his rides on the legendary 1960s steeplechaser Arkle. Pat rode two Grand National winners - Quare Times (1955) and top weight Gay Trip (1970). I'm not as sweet on Treacle this year, but it would leave a sour taste if he went well unsupported, so he goes in at number five.

Rating: 7/10 Odds: 66-1 23 011611 LOST GLORY 8-10-08 Jonjo O'Neill Mark Walsh The horse, bred in New Zealand (like previous winners Seagram - 1991 - and Lord Gyllene - 1997), is trained in Gloucestershire by Jonjo O'Neill, whose stable is bankrolled by JP McManus. The team won with Don't Push It, ridden by AP McCoy, in 2010 and the yard's Sunnyhillboy was a narrow second in the 2012 race in which stablemate and Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Synchronised died. Scored a few wins much earlier in the season, but in lower grade races. Rating: 5/10 Odds: 50-1 24 P-P1440 SWING BILL 12-10-08 David Pipe Conor O'Farrell Pipe family have a great affection for the big race.

Trainer David Pipe won with Comply or Die in 2008, while his father Martin oversaw the 1994 victory of Miinnehoma, owned by comedian Freddie Starr. Can't see them celebrating this time with the grey who has run all right over the fences in the Becher Chase, but doubt Swing Bill will pay the bills. Rating: 5/10 Odds: 66-1 25 U01-F430 SAINT ARE 7-10-08 Tim Vaughan Dougie Costello Likes Aintree - has won a hurdle race and steeplechase at the track, albeit not on the National course. Fell in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury earlier in the season, and horses aged just seven do not have a great record in the big race here. Bred in France by Jaques Cypres, whose farm produced the 1994 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner The Fellow.

Rating: 5/10 Odds: 66-1 26 B-0U631 CHICAGO GREY 10-10-07 Gordon Elliott IRE Paul Carberry My auntie played bingo for a good while with the Irish trainer's gran over in County Meath. You'd think he would give me the odd tip. Still waiting. He did tell me on Friday the horse was well. After winning the National in 2007 with Silver Birch, Elliott said he would drink a barrel of his country's favourite drink. Suspect he might have got through two. Jockey won in 1999 on Bobbyjo for trainer father Tommy Carberry. Rating: 8/10 Odds: 14-1 27 010F-605 QUISCOVER FONTAINE 9-10-07 Willie Mullins IRE David Casey Fourth in the 2011 Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse behind winner Organisedconfusion. Runners from the Mullins yard always deserve respect, particularly in this race off a relatively low weight. However, is not the stable's main hope and has not shone so far this season.

Rating: 5/10 Odds: 40-1 28 3B0-643 RARE BOB 11-10-06 Dessie Hughes IRE Bryan Cooper Jockey rated as a potential future champion, some calling him 'the next Ruby Walsh'. Trainer another of those from a great Irish racing family - his son Richard is the current champion Flat jockey in the UK. The selection of 1981 Grand National-winning jockey Bob Champion, who beat cancer to win on Aldaniti. Champion says he is not backing Rare Bob just for the name. He sounded fairly bullish. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 20-1 29 04-311P4 THE RAINBOW HUNTER 9-10-06 Kim Bailey Aidan Coleman Trained in Gloucestershire by Kim Bailey, who won the Grand National in 1990 with Mr Frisk, the last horse to win under an amateur jockey - Marcus Armytage, now a racing journalist with the Daily Telegraph.

The Rainbow Hunter's owners include Oli Bell, a presenter for Racing UK, who tells me he has a good each-way shout on the drying ground. Jockey rode Mon Mome in 2008 National but picked another when horse won at 100-1 a year later. Rating: 7/10 Odds: 66-1 30 F-63PP5 BECAUSEICOULDNTSEE 10-10-06 Noel Glynn IRE Martin Ferris Possibly an unlucky faller in the 2012 National. Said I couldn't see Becauseicouldntsee winning last year and I still can't see it this time round. Owned by trainer whose yard in the beautiful setting of Ennis in County Clare benefits from the wisdom of assistant Jason Titley, winning jockey in 1995 on Royal Athlete, trained by Jenny Pitman.

Rating: 5/10 Odds: 50-1 31) 12P-P00 HARRY THE VIKING 8-10-06 Paul Nicholls Ryan Mahon Bookmakers say this is likely to be a popular each-way selection as there are quite a few Harrys out there these days. A second runner in this year's race for co-owner Sir Alex Ferguson, who also has a share in What A Friend and is big pals with champion trainer Paul Nicholls. Was second in Cheltenham four-miler last year behind Teaforthree but a little out of sorts since. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 50-1 32) 2360264 MR MOONSHINE (IRE) 9-10-05 Sue Smith Peter Buchanan Decent second at Wetherby over the festive period to the useful Cape Tribulation, who was fifth in last month's Cheltenham Gold Cup. Little else to get over-excited about. Trained by Sue Smith, the wife of former showjumper Harvey who caused a stir with a V-sign a long time ago. Will it be V for victory this time? V unlikely.

Rating: 5/10 Odds: 66-1 33) 1133FP MUMBLES HEAD (IRE) 12-10-04 Peter Bowen Jamie Moore Scored two nice wins at Perth in the summer of 2012, although has been less prolific away from the Scottish track. Fell at the first when trailing in the Becher Chase over the National fences at Aintree in December. Welsh trainer appears to have a more dangerous challenger in Always Waining. Rating: 5/10 Odds: 100-1 34) 3F6042 NINETIETH MINUTE (IRE) 10-10-03 Tom Taaffe Niall Madden Some jokers have suggested this one should be owned by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. Won the 2009 Coral Cup over hurdles at Cheltenham. Has won just once over fences for Irish trainer Tom Taaffe. Jockey Niall "Slippers" Madden won the 2006 National on Numbersixvalverde. Last time I tipped the winner. Good lad. His dad was known as "Boots".

It's a long story. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 66-1 35) 0P45F5 AURORAS ENCORE (IRE) 11-10-03 Sue Smith Ryan Mania Intriguing one this. Close second, beaten a neck by Merigo, in the 2012 Scottish Grand National having fallen at the first in the race two years earlier. Has been very disappointing this season so far. A win for the jockey would give headline writers something to conjure with, although I can't think of one myself. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 66-1 36) P11420 TARQUINIUS (FR) 10-10-02 Gordon Elliott IRE Wilson Renwick Trainer (see Chicago Grey) comes from a family of bingo players. Suspect his eyes will be down mainly looking at the shorter-priced stablemate, although a very decent second in a good trial, the Thyestes Chase at Gowran Park, offers encouragement. Disappointing in Leinster National last time and that one little duck, combined with a possible preference for heavier ground, makes others appeal more.

Rating: 6/10 Odds: 100-1 37) 614U40 ANY CURRENCY (IRE) 10-10-00 Martin Keighley Ian Popham Stamina is the forte of this horse owned by the Cash Is King Syndicate, so called because of the horse's name. Does he need heavier ground to bring this into play, as when third to Tidal Bay in the Bet365 Gold Cup (formerly the Whitbread) at Sandown in April 2012? Unseated jockey Aidan Coleman at the Canal Turn in Becher Chase on heavy going at Aintree in December, although trainer believes he will jump better in these drier conditions. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 100-1 38) 2P-265P MAJOR MALARKEY (IRE) 10-9-13 Nigel Twiston-Davies Tom Scudamore You can't argue with the name - classic. Bits and pieces of decent form, such as when runner-up in the Midlands National in March 2012.

His sire (dad to you and me) Supreme Leader was also responsible for 2002 National runner-up What's Up Boys. The trainer we know about (see Imperial Commander) and the rider is the son of former champion jump jockey Peter. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 200-1 39) 621B-001 SOLL 8-9-12 Jo Hughes Mark Grant Top Racing Post writer Alastair Down, who has had the pleasure of sitting next to me all meeting in the media centre, likes this one as an each-way prospect. Unlucky when brought down in race won by Teaforthree at Cheltenham last year. Now with up-and-coming Lambourn trainer. Might be one for football supporters of a certain persuasion if they think of former England defender Sol Campbell, I suppose. Rating: 6/10 Odds: 66-1 40) 023P25 VIKING BLOND (FR) 8-9-11 Nigel Twiston-Davies Adam Wedge Went off at 80-1 last year and fell at the first.

Had been favourite for the 2011 Welsh National at Chepstow but was pulled up. More encouraging fifth in the Grand National Trial at Haydock in February. Trainer has the top weight and bottom weight. Suggest you look a little higher up the list. Rating: 5/10 Odds: 66-1 BBC Sport - Horse Racing - Grand National 2011 as it happened Printable version Grand National 2011 as it happened To get involved, e-mail racing@bbc.co.uk (with 'For Oliver Brett' in the subject), use Twitter with #bbcgrandnational in your tweet or text on 81111 with "RACING" as the first word. (Not all comments can be used. Messages charged at your standard operator rate) By Oliver Brett 1714: Thanks for all your input and enjoy the rest of the sporting weekend, with the golf at Augusta obviously a big highlight. I close with the news that Irish trainer Paul Nolan has won the 1700 race on Far Away So Close, and I hope you enjoyed our coverage. Congratulations to the McCain team and Ballabriggs, and condolences to the yards of Paul Nicholls and Willie Mullins.

They trained the two horses who died. BBC1's Mick Fitzgerald: "I think Jason Maguire is riding really well at the moment and has real potential to be a possible champion jockey of the future. The owner Trevor Hemmings is the nicest man you'll ever meet, just as good in defeat as he is in victory. BBC1 betting expert Gary Wiltshire: "I would say it was a good result for the bookies, with Ruby Walsh out of the places as well. But there was certainly a big cheer from round here when Ballabriggs won." 1701: Confirmation now that Ornais and Dooneys Gate did suffer fatal falls in today's race. Our thoughts go out to the connections of those horses. 1659: As well as being a great story for the McCains, there's a narrative behind jockey Jason Maguire's success. He had to pass the doctor on Friday after a bad fall 24 hours earlier and was in danger of missing the ride. Maguire could have ridden the winner, Silver Birch, in the 2007 renewal but stayed loyal to McCain's Idle Talk and might have thought his chance of glory had gone.

1650: In answer to various requests, we are attepting to find out what happened to the two most serious fallers and their jockeys. We are not ignoring the issue, but don't want to assume anything until fully aware of the facts. E-mail from James Hickey: "Jason Maguire just swore on national TV after winning the Grand National - surely that's a two-match ban?!" I think they'll let me off as there's a big difference in the circumstances! 1647: Some of the younger ones around probably don't remember Red Rum. He won this race three times in the 1970s for trainer Ginger McCain, who came back in 2004 to win it one last time with Amberleigh House. The legend continues now with Ginger's son Donald winning the race for himself. 1642: There will be plenty of hard-luck stories, and here's Ruby Walsh (The Midnight Club): "I made a bad mistake at the first ditch, he changed his mind at the last minute and he got very careful with his jumping after that.

Patrick Mullins had a very bad fall (on Dooneys Gate), I hope he's OK." 1638: Becher's and one other fence were bypased on the second circuit while injured horses were attended to. Ballabriggs's lad says the horse had to be led through with the jockey off his back simply to ensure they could get as much water into the animal as quickly as possible, but he's reported to be fine now. From thomasmurphy33: "You just can't beat the National. Not good to see fences being bypassed for obvious reasons but can't take away from it." Winning trainer Donald McCain: "We always genuinely thought he might be an Aintree horse. Things have gone so smoothly all year, he's a joy to deal with." 1635: With about a circuit to go, Ballabriggs, who is trained by Donald McCain (Ginger's son - he was Red Rum's trainer), already looked by far the most comfortable horse in the race.

Winning jockey Jason Maguire says: "He was jumping fence-to-fence, I was just trying to get him over the jumps, wanted to keep him in the top 10, but fair play to Donald, who's done a wonderful job." RESULT - 1615 John Smith's Grand National Steeplechase 1. Ballabriggs (Jason Maguire) 14-1 2. Oscar Time (Sam Waley-Cohen) 14-1 3. Don't Push It (Tony McCoy) 9-1 4. State Of Play (Paul Moloney) 28-1 5. Niche Market (Harry Skelton) 16-1 1628: Don't Push It was third, checking for fourth and fifth. 1627: Oscar Time, with Sam Waley-Cohen riding, did his best to reel in the leader, but ended up a few lengths behind. 1627: Ballabriggs wins the Grand National! Jason Maguire the winning jockey for Donald McCain.

1627: Slight error from Oscar Time two out, Ballabriggs still leads with Don't Push It struggling under top weight at The Elbow. 1626: What A Friend is pulled up as they approach the last two fences. 1625: Ballabriggs and Santa's Son make mistakes, but Ballabriggs recovers. Oscar Time has been going very well for a while. 1624: Ballabriggs is galloping and jumping superbly with Killyglen just behind and Niche Market also firmly in contention. 1623: We have a new leader, who is Ballabriggs. 1622: Quinz is pulled up just before The Chair. Don't Push It is still there and going nicely. 1622: Santa's Son is jumping beautifully with Grand Slam Hero the latest faller. 1621: Majestic Concorde is going very nicely alongside Santa's Son in the lead. 1620: Santa's Son, one of the big outsiders, leads over The Canal Turn, with Hello Bud jumping well. Tidal Bay unseats his rider.

1619: Calgary Bay and Ornais both fall at the fourth. Killyglen is well up there, The Midnight Club is in midfield. Dooneys Gate goes at Becher's among others. 1618: That's Rhythm falls at the first, Becauseicouldntsee goes at the second. 1618: They're off. 1617: The starter is on his roster, and he's been urging the jockeys not to charge before the tapes are up. BBC Sport's Frank Keogh on Twitter: "Pick of the parade ring for me inc Bluesea Cracker, Niche Market, Skippers Brig, Oscar Time." 1615: Can't see anything sweating up, or looking like they don't want to be there. West End Rocker is pulling at his bit a little but that won't be a concern. Andrew McNamara has his boots out of his irons to keep as much weight of Bluesea Cracker's back as possible. Looks like we'll start a bit a late. Very odd white bridle on Golden Kite. 1611: Parading in front of the stands before the canter to the start.

Majestic Concorde looks tiny, but his trainer Dermot Weld is a name to respect. Big Fella Thanks looks quite lively, will he stay? The Midnight Club, a light, almost chestnut colour, looks very comfortable and happy to be there. Many of these horses have been quite spectacularly well turned out. Great credit to all the lads and lasses who work silly hours for little money. From Hugh_Wilson: "I'm hoping one of my nine comes in... Grand Slam hero at 66/1 e/w , come on!" Fair enough to have more than one horse, but nine? 1606: Richard Dunwoody reckons What A Friend is the "pick of the paddock" but tips Niche Market to win. 1605: Legendary owner JP McManus, who finally landed this race last year, is asked to comment on some of the horses he doesn't own: "Tidal Bay, if he adopts well to this course, he could be well handicapped." 1603: Chief Dan George is on his toes, prancing about in the parade ring.

Clare Balding has got hold of Ged Mason, who shares ownership of What A Friend with Sir Alex Ferguson: "He is genuine, all the press say he's a bit funny with his head-carriage. I'm just about to text Sir Alex, United are winning at the moment so it's going our way." 1600: With 15 minutes to go until the start, the 40 jockeys pose for the famous pre-race photograph. Plenty of smiles, not too much nerves, though Tony McCoy's piercing focus stands out. 1559: Ballabriggs is "looking well - you can see the stencil mark on his hind-quarters," says Richard Dunwoody. He reckons Don't Push It "looks fit". I'll add this: McCoy's mount looks completely chilled out, and that will help him. In this heat you don't want your horse to get too anxious at the start. From touchlinetv: "Bet placed. Money on Oscar Time, go for it Sam Waley-Cohen.

Fab build up as ever by #bbcgrandnational - always a spectacle." Comply or Die's jockey Timmy Murphy: "He's in great form, got a great weight, loves the ground and he comes to life round here." 1550: On course, The Midnight Club is right down to 15-2. "It's the jungle, the betting jungle," says Gary Wiltshire. He notes that Comply Or Die has been well backed, and so it has! Right in to 25-1. From jesseddie: "The British Women's rowing team are going to huddle around a laptop to watch online whilst on training camp in Italy! 1547: We haven't mentioned Quinz much, but this is a winner of the Racing Post who is well treated in the weights and has a fine jockey in the shape of Richard Johnson. The horse I didn't back after telling everyone how good it was is Ballabriggs, for the McCain team. I now almost want something to beat it! From lewiswaltoncent: "Can you imagine if they handicapped Usain Bolt?

Gave him a man purse and a couple of kilos to carry while he did it!" 1543: Comply Or Die, who won the race in 2008, is being trailed by a BBC crew. He hasn't got the blinkers on yet. Adrian Maguire, once known as a top-class jockey, is putting in some last-minute work on Golden Kite. He looks thrilled to be here with his first National entry. 1540: It's high time to check the latest market moves for the Grand National which is, of course, our next race. The Midnight Club looks like a cosy favourite, with Silver By Nature about 12-1 on the betting exchanges following plenty of big bets today. Don't Push It is about 14-1 with Oscar Time, What A Friend and Quinz also attracting consistent support. 1535: Nice win for Paul Gallagher on the Howard Johnson eight-year-old. The horse just kept on fighting, beating off the challengers one by one. Paul's had a good week and partners Royal Rosa in the big one. RESULT - 1525 John Smith's Handicap Steeplechase 1.

Prince De Beauchene (Paul Gallagher) 10-1 2. Categorical (James Reveley) 20-1 3. Reve De Sivola (Daryl Jacob) 7-1 1532: Prince de Beauchene wins. 1531: Bensalem unseats his rider; Reve de Sivola fights out the finish with Prince de Beauchene. 1530: Big error from Rare Bob may have cost his chances. Prince de Beauchene looks to be the one to beat. 1529: Carrickmines falls, jockey Paddy Brennan looks fine however. All three jockeys who fell have National rides but we think they'll be OK. 1528: Bensalem, one of the fancies, is lacking fluency while Saphir des Bois takes the lead. We think Sam Twiston-Davies is fine. 1526: Take The Breeze is brought down by a faller, Crescent Island. Ruby Walsh is walking away, not sure about Sam Twiston-Davies yet. Horses are fine.

1525: They're off in the John Smith's Handicap Chase over three miles. Last one before the National! From hope123123: "I have bet on Character Building... Only female rider... Girl Power!" Good for you. Remember Katie Walsh, who has just been handed a six-day ban for excessive use of the whip, would have had her first ride in this but unfortunately Our Monty developed a leg infection on Wednesday and was withdrawn. Clare Balding on BBC1: "If either Don't Push It or Character Building win, what a story that would make, real front page news stuff." Tony McCoy (Don't Push It): "Arbor Supreme is one that will like the ground and he has the ability. Don't Push It - there's a lot of stats against him but statistics are there to be broken. [On Binocular] No excuses, he jumped pretty slick but didn't finish his race the way you'd want." Nina Carberry (Character Bulding): "He just ran out of juice towards the end last year.

Hopefully just get him round, that's the main thing and then see how we go towards the end, hopefully we'll be close enough." From ConorMcNamaraIE: "Even if you don't have money on a horse at Aintree, John Hunt's commentary on @bbc5live still gives you goosebumps. Got lots of good reviews for John Hunt's commentary during Cheltenham too!" From Shirley in Warrington: "Sunshine and bets, horses galore, you all make it special, What A Friend you are." 1507: Don't want to get too deep into this, but Chief Dan George is trained in Cartmel by a Scotsman (thanks to the e-mail from Snoussi). Ex-Inter Milan and Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez: "I have no idea about racehorses, I prefer dressage normally but it's amazing seeing the horses and seeing the quality. I will be supporting someone, I will not say who. My daughter is in charge of the betting. The weather is like in Spain." E-mail from Wayne in Usk: "I've just realised that I've organised the office sweepstake with last year's horses! Any advice?

Apart from pocketing all the cash and running, you could simply attribute each horse's number to the current list. Good luck! 1501: Brilliant ride from Ruby Walsh's sister Katie but she couldn't quite collar the winner at the end, and it's a remarkable treble for Henderson and Geraghty. Although Geraghty's National mount Or Noir De Somoza is a big outsider you wouldn't want to rule him out completely. RESULT - 1450 John Smith's Dick Francis Aintree Hurdle 1. Oscar Whisky (Barry Geraghty) 6-1 Fav 2. Thousand Stars (Katie Walsh) 16-1 3. Salden Licht (Robert Thornton) 25-1 1455: The Henderson second string, Oscar Whisky, just holds on from the fast-finishing grey Thousand Stars. 1453: Oscar Whisky will try to make it a real test of stamina as he pushes them along now while Salden Licht is making a play. 1453: Celestial Halo still making the pace, Oscar Whisky bowling along in second. Plenty have chances.

1451: The Paul Nicholls horse, Celestial Halo, makes the pace with Binocular about fifth and Peddlers Cross travelling nicely in third. 1450: They're off in the Aintree Hurdle. 1449: Just to clarify. I have mentioned two Scottish-trained National entries and let's not forget there is a third: Chief Dan George. Good to see all this interest from north of the border. 1448: Our next and third race (the Grand National is the fifth and starts at 1615) is the John Smith's Aintree Hurdle. We've got Binocular in it, a mercurial horse with a somewhat controversial history, but Peddlers Cross will be tough to beat. Ladbrokes have taken a punt of £80,000 on this one to win! From James, Vienna: "I'm not superstitious, but I've had a vivid dream that number 36 won this year's Grand National! Should I bet my house on it?" I wouldn't bet your house on it, but put it this way: even a small wager on Ornais might allow you to BUY a house if this big outsider wins.

From McGolders: "How can @BarryJGeraghty only pick up a spare in #BBCGrandNational? Legend." BBC Sport's Frank Keogh on Twitter: "Forty Grand National runners have been read to Honest Junior (female, 20 months). She cuddled phone for Niche Market." BBC Sport racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght on Twitter: "Jockey Peter Toole taken straight to hospital after fall in Maghull Nov Ch from Classic Fly; briefly unconscious." We wish the horse and jockey well. Toole has no National ride, by the way. 1431: Remember there's another Scottish horse to follow in the National, and that's Silver By Nature. He's a grey which is always popular for once-a-year punters (easy to spot) and is currently second favourite. In my opinion this very fast ground wouldn't be ideal for him, but what do I know? Scottish trainer James Motherway is trying to get Bluesea Cracker to be the first mare to win this in 60 years. He says: "I suppose maybe geldings are better equipped being the boys in the game.

But my one stays, she jumps, she can take a bump and she can give as good as she gets. On the gallops she messes about a bit, so I'll be telling James McNamara 'For God's sake don't let her go to the front too soon.' " 1422: Two in two for trainer Nicky Henderson, but he's not someone you associate with the Grand National and he doesn't have a runner in the big race today. He could have a treble to celebrate instead, because Binocular will get plenty of support in the next race. RESULT - 1415 John Smith's Maghull Novices' Steeplechase 1. Finian's Rainbow (Barry Geraghty) 10-11 Fav 2. Ghizao (Ruby Walsh) 3-1 3. Dan Breen (Jason Maguire) 8-1 1420: Barry Geraghty collects a double for Nicky Henderson as Finian's Rainbow, despite appearing to run out of pace in the latter stages, takes advantage of some poor jumping from Ghizao.

1418: Ghizao and Finian's Rainbow are disputing the lead three from home. 1417: Heavy fall at the first for Classic Fly. Finian's Rainbow going very nicely. 1415: They're off in the John Smith's Maghull Novices' Steeplechase. E-mail from Jenny Hill & Margoe Hammon, Pembroke West Wales: "My cousin and I were delighted to see the clip of the 1911 winner Glenside reported on by Richard Pitman. Our grandfather Dick Beynon bred Glenside. He sold the horse to Sir Ivor Anthony. It was trained at Lawrenny Pembrokeshire along with national winners Kirkland and Music Hall. I am led to understand that they built a replica of the National course at Lawrenny where they trained the horses. We have pictures somewhere of Glenside who I believe only had one eye!

Thank you for making our day - we were fortunate enough to tape the recording for family members to see later." 1409: Huge boo from the Scousers at Aintree when the BBC's Dan Walker asks a selection of spectators whether anyone's booing Sir Alex Ferguson's What A Friend. Jockey Daryl Jacob (What A Friend): "I haven't spoken to Sir Alex Ferguson since the Gold Cup, but he was delighted after the Gold Cup when he came fourth and it's very good of him keeping me on the horse. He seems in really good form at the moment." Jockey Hadden Frost (Calgary Bay): "He's big, quite classy touch wood. He's a good jumper and hopefully he's the right sort." E-mail from James: "I've put a couple of pounds on Becauseicouldn'tsee for my girlfriend. She poked herself in the eye and is now wearing an eyepatch, It's fate." Oscar Time jockey Sam Waley-Cohen on BBC1: "Racing really is an amateur sport for me. One of the big things for me is when I go into a race like this is that I'm fit as can possibly be. This is such a dream race.

The horse has to have so much courage but there has to be a unity between man and beast. You could have Cheryl Cole streaking and you wouldn't even notice." From ConorBond: "Calgary Bay for the Grand National. Jockey's form has been patchy recently but I think we are in for a bit of surprise." That one's about 40-1 in places. Probably fair to say trainer Henrietta Kinght has also been "patchy" but both BBC Sport's Frank Keogh and Jennie Pitman like Calgary Bay too... RESULT - 1345 John Smith's Mersey Novices' Hurdle 1. Spirit Son (Barry Geraghty) 3-1 2. Cue Card (Joe Tizzard) 5-2 Fav 3. Rock On Ruby (Daryl Jacob) 9-2 1351: Spirit Son wins the first race under Barry Geraghty for trainer Nicky Henderson. Geraghty will partner outsider Or Noir De Somoza in the big race while Brian Hughes, the jockey who fell, is walking away without ill effect. He's on Tidal Bay in the National.

1350: Drive Time is a a heavy faller three flights out... 1346: If you want to send a tweet I'll check anything with a #bbcgrandnational hashtag. Thanks! 1345: They're off in the John Smith's Mersey Novices' Hurdle. David from London: "My first Grand National winner was Highland Wedding in 1969. l was 14. My aunt's daughter was married the same day. I started watching the race when Jay Trump won 1965." 1342: With the runners for the first race (1345) on their way down to the start, a quick look at the betting market shows The Midnight Club is a clear favourite now, with Silver By Nature next best in the betting and Oscar Time third. McCoy's Don't Push It is being pushed down the market.

BBC Sport's Frank Keogh on Twitter: " 'It was nice to be out there and not be scared' says dual National winner Carl Llewellyn after second in veterans charity race." 1337: Super exchange between BBC Sport's Rishi Persad and jockey Robert Thornton (West End Rocker's jockey). Rishi was under the impression that "Choc" Thornton had cut his long, flowing locks for charity. "No," says Choc. "It's 'cos I'm a Dad now and I've grown up, and besides my daughter doesn't know which one's mummy." 1327: Tony McCoy is on BBC1, sitting on his sofa chatting to Clare Balding. What a lovely house he has. The interview was, of course, pre-recorded and a very good one it is too. Meanwhile, have you been through Frank Keogh's runners and riders yet? Have you organised a sweepstake? Or have you already done all that and fancy reading Frank's excellent interview with Sam Waley-Cohen - the fantastic amateur jockey who rides the fancied Oscar Time today? Tony McCoy reflecting on last year's win: "It's quite sad in a way, because it's gone now.

It's unbelievable how happy people were, I'm not sure how happy I'd be for someone else. I didn't want to be someone who had ridden all them winners and not won the Grand National." 1318: If you don't mind, I'd love you lot to send me a tweet, a text or an e-mail to tell me who you're backing and your crazy thinking behind your selection. I'm backing a big outsider this year, Vic Venturi, though it's nothing to do with the fact that if you spell its name slightly differently on an internet search you get pointed to information about an exotic, er... actress. BBC1 betting expert Gary Wiltshire: "What a lovely day, the atmosphere is tremendous. The bookies lost a fortune last year, millions, let's hope it happens again this year. I've just spoken to all the heads of the bookmakers and they say all sorts of horses are being backed today. I've got a funny feeling What A Friend, Sir Alex Ferguson's horse, might start favourite. I think a lot of people might back him just before the off. Big Fella Thanks at 16-1 is a fair price, could go off at less.

When you have a bet make sure you ask your friendly bookie for a price!" 1310: If you're going to have a single bet all year, this is the one. So who have you gone for? After yesterday's emotional plunge on Tony McCoy to repeat last year's success on this year's top weight Don't Push It, plenty of realists have today put their cash on the earlier favourite, The Midnight Club, ridden by Ruby Walsh and the best of the Irish contingent. Meanwhile, the real "gamble" of the day is on Silver By Nature, as noted by Cornelius Lysaght below. He's bidding to be the first Scottish horse to win since Rubstic (1979) and the first grey to do it since 1961 (Nicolaus Silver). BBC Sport's Frank Keogh at Aintree: "As a sell-out crowd of racegoers basked in sunshine on a glorious Grand National day at Aintree I walked to the winning line, and spied the grave of the great triple winner Red Rum.

That iconic fence, The Chair, could be seen in the background and the memories of this great sporting day flooded back as Bob Champion, back in the Aldaniti colours, recalled that famous day when he won 30 years ago after beating cancer. I thought of my late father who wrote a song The Taaffe Boys of Rathcoole centred on jockey Pat Taaffe's 1955 National win on Quare Times which gave legendary Irish trainer Vincent O'Brien a third straight victory with three different horses, and I welled up a bit, I have to admit. So many memories, so many stories.

Whose tear-jerking tale will be told after the 30 fences and four-and-a-half miles are negotiated this afternoon?" BBC Sport racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght on Twitter: "William Hill predicting heavily backed Silver By Nature may displace Don't Push It as favourite." 1300: As we coincide our text coverage with live TV on BBC1 and streamed video across this website within the UK, I can still recall the seven-year-old me living every leap as Charlie Fenwick guided Ben Nevis to the finish line ahead of the only other three finishers in the 1980 mudbath of a race. It was not so easy to replicate that success: it took me 22 years to find another winner (Bindaree). 1255: You always remember the first time. First day at school, first kiss, first pint. How fond are your memories of your first Grand National winner?

Bookmark with: Aintree Grand National Jockeys | 2016 Race | Favourite | Betting | Riders | Runners Latest Aintree Grand National 2016 Win Odds As well as the more famous names, there have been some unlikely Jockeys who have won the National with perhaps the most obvious of them being the relatively unknown Liam Treadwell who we all remember winning on Mon Mome in 2009 as a 100/1 shot. Female Jockeys are also of interest on National day and invariably we get one or two ladies looking to become the first one to ever ride a National winner. The most prominent female Jockey riding at the moment is Nina Carberry and she is likely to have a decent ride in 2013 having had some good spins over the big fences in the past. Another notable jockey to follow when having a bet on the Grand National is the exceptional Barry Geraghty who famously won the National back in 2003 on board Monty's Pass.

Geraghty is one of the top jockeys in the UK and Ireland as he has shown for a number of years, he has a stable job for Nicky Henderson and will always be given the leg up on a horse that has a chance of winning each April. Aintree Grand National Festival Top Jockey Odds - Click To Bet Awaiting odds.......

Key Grand National Jockeys 2016 Ruby Walsh - Double National Winner and top Irish Jockey AP McCoy - 2010 National winner and Sports Personality Of the Year 2010 Richard Johnson - ridden over 2000 winners in the UK Jason Maguire - 2011 National winner and stable jockey for famous McCain yard Barry Geraghty - 2003 Grand National winner and over 20 Cheltenham Festival winners Nina Carberry - Top Irish Female jockey Paul Carberry - 11 Cheltenham Festival winners and 1999 Grand National winner Timmy Murphy - 2008 Grand National winner and ridden over 1000 winners Ballabriggs the Grand National odds pick based on quirky trends | Ladbrokes.com | Sports News Betting News > Horse Racing > Grand National > Ballabriggs the Grand National odds pick based on quirky trends Ballabriggs the Grand National odds pick based on quirky trends Ballabriggs has an 11-letter name and an Irish jockey who will wear green silks at Aintree 8 April 2011 oud.com/feed/odds-feed/getLadOdds.php

?eventID=214041722&marketID=219613779&categoryID=2785〈=en Picking a good jumper, with strong resolves of stamina are key trends to follow in the Grand National , but punters happy to follow some more unique statistics will find that Ballabriggs is the likely victor at Aintree.

Ladbrokes have thrown out the formbook and have looked at seven quirky statistics in order to find a Grand National tip, including the nationality of the winning jockey, the length of the horse’s name and the colour of the jockey’s silks. Ballabriggs is 14/1 in the Grand National odds and is the only horse in the 40 that meets all of the seven statistics. The last ten Grand National winners were considered in the creation of the statistics and the results were as follows. • Seven winners were aged either nine or ten • Nine were no bigger than 33/1 in the Grand National betting • Four of the winning horses had 11 letters in their name • Seven winning jockeys wore green silks • Seven winning jockeys have been Irish • Nine winning jockeys had no more than six letters in their first name • All ten jockeys have had 13 or fewer letters in their full names Meanwhile, Ballabriggs also meets a large percentage of the typical trends that are traditionally followed in the selection of a Grand National winner and have been common among the last ten victors.

These include that he heads to Aintree with a weight of less than 11st 5lb, he has won over a distance of at least three miles during his career and has had no more than two falls during his chase career. Ballabriggs will be lining up for the Grand National in green and yellow silks, will be ridden by Jason Maguire and has the added advantage of being trained by Donald McCain, the son of Red Rum’s legendary trainer Ginger. A £20 stake on Ballabriggs winning the Grand National would return £280. New customers can sign up here to take advantage of free bets totalling up to £60. Share this:

Question: What is the name of the jockey who won the 2011 English Grand National on Ballabriggs?
Answer: Jason Maguire